Drug interactions
Eszopiclone + Primidone
Severity: Moderate
Eszopiclone and Primidone: moderate interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Primidone is metabolized to phenobarbital, which induces CYP3A4 and may lower eszopiclone levels and efficacy. Both agents are also sedating.
What this interaction means in plain words
Eszopiclone and Primidone can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Eszopiclone belongs to Central Nervous System; Primidone belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
CYP3A4 induction by primidone and its metabolite phenobarbital increases eszopiclone clearance, plus additive CNS depression.
What to do
Monitor for reduced hypnotic effect and additive sedation. Consider an alternative hypnotic if insomnia is not controlled.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Eszopiclone
Other interactions of Primidone
- Lorlatinib + Primidone Contraindicated
- Lurasidone + Primidone Contraindicated
- Primidone + Ranolazine Contraindicated
- Primidone + Sofosbuvir-velpatasvir-voxilaprevir Contraindicated
- Primidone + Voriconazole Contraindicated
- Abiraterone + Primidone Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Eszopiclone with Primidone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Eszopiclone and Primidone can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Primidone is metabolized to phenobarbital, which induces CYP3A4 and may lower eszopiclone levels and efficacy. Both agents are also sedating.
How serious is the interaction between Eszopiclone and Primidone?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor for reduced hypnotic effect and additive sedation. Consider an alternative hypnotic if insomnia is not controlled.
What other medicines interact with Eszopiclone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Eszopiclone with, for example, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Sodium oxybate, Amobarbital. The full list is on the Eszopiclone page.
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